The Alexandria Friends of Stratford Hall held the annual tea at the home of Maeve and Bob Rigler on Prince Street last week on Tuesday afternoon. The Friends, through their contributions, support the preservation, research and educational activities of the historic plantation.
Stratford Hall was built in 1738 by Thomas Lee and became the home of the Lees of Stratford. Thomas Lee and his wife had eight children; two of their sons, Richard Henry and Francis Lightfoot were signers of the Declaration of Independence. It was also the birthplace of Robert E. Lee.
It sits high upon a bluff overlooking the Potomac River. In 1929, the Robert E. Lee Memorial Association incorporated and purchased Stafford Hall along with 1,600 acres. The Stratford Hall Plantation is governed by a Board of Directors, representing the 50 states and Great Britain.
On April 24, Stratford Hall will host its 12th triennial Coaching Day. Coaching Day will feature a parade of 19th century road coaches and carriages, a performance by the Lancaster High School Band, Trumpet Call from the Great House Chimneys, 18th century hunting exhibition, demonstrations by the Ashland Bassets and Farmington Beagles, Tilting the ring competition, tailgate picnic competition and a drawing for a Stratford Coaching scarf and overnight stay.
For more tickets and more information and directions visit www.stratfordhall.org or call 804-493-8038